Delaware Bans ICE-Local Police Agreements, Spokane Rejects ICE Protections

Delaware passed House Bill 182, banning local law enforcement from entering 287(g) agreements with ICE, aiming to prevent local police from enforcing federal immigration laws, a practice that has expanded significantly since President Trump took office and faced opposition for using local resources and increasing legal liabilities. In Spokane, Washington, the City Council rejected the “Safe and Welcome in Spokane” ordinance, which would have restricted warrantless immigration enforcement at certain public events, due to concerns about legal viability and unintended consequences such as potentially attracting federal enforcement to these events. The ordinance failed to secure the necessary votes and its sponsor resigned, though there are plans to possibly reintroduce the legislation. Separately, Spokane replaced a voter-approved camping ban with a new citywide camping ban passed along ideological lines, removing a notice period for breaking up encampments to strengthen enforcement. These developments reflect ongoing tensions in local governance regarding immigration enforcement and public safety policies, balancing community protection with legal and political challenges.